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The Book of Maker
When Clarissa Bell goes to a shop that sells pre-owned books in search of something different she finds much more than a new story; she finds herself wrapped in an adventure where fiction extends beyond words on a page and has the power to completely change everything.
Take care when putting pen to paper, when using imagination to create.
For in the unknown twist of everything vast, reality may come into being.
A new fantasy adventure from the author of the much loved “Alloria”.
Author note:
This story, The Book of Maker, has been the most difficult I have written to date, primarily because it originated as the seed of an idea presented to me by my daughter, Jodie. That seed came as a what-if question, namely, what if you could communicate with a character in a story and they could communicate with you. Therein, I had an intriguing idea gifted to me, albeit one with no beginning, middle or end. The idea lived in my mind for a long while, slowly growing, and while I jotted down ideas and kept notes they were very fragmented. For a number of years I shelved this story, or rather its fragments, and got on with writing other stories. One day, I pulled those fragments back from their dark resting places (or did those fragments pull me to them) and I began to wonder, what happens to the characters in unfinished stories? For it seemed that these characters had continued to develop in my subconscious. The story was somehow seemingly complete, as if it had found its own way; all I had to do was write it down. At least that’s what I thought when I began. It soon became clear that there were a lot of holes remaining, holes that would allow the story to collapse if I did not fill them.
Fill them I did, and here it is, eventually, after torturous agonizing months, the story that came from that gifted seed of an idea. In many ways, to my way of thinking, it has grown into much more than a story, it has become a window into how a story is constructed, at least how I constructed this story. I hope you enjoy the journey through the words I’ve used to tell it.
Take care when putting pen to paper, when using imagination to create.
For in the unknown twist of everything vast, reality may come into being.
A new fantasy adventure from the author of the much loved “Alloria”.
Author note:
This story, The Book of Maker, has been the most difficult I have written to date, primarily because it originated as the seed of an idea presented to me by my daughter, Jodie. That seed came as a what-if question, namely, what if you could communicate with a character in a story and they could communicate with you. Therein, I had an intriguing idea gifted to me, albeit one with no beginning, middle or end. The idea lived in my mind for a long while, slowly growing, and while I jotted down ideas and kept notes they were very fragmented. For a number of years I shelved this story, or rather its fragments, and got on with writing other stories. One day, I pulled those fragments back from their dark resting places (or did those fragments pull me to them) and I began to wonder, what happens to the characters in unfinished stories? For it seemed that these characters had continued to develop in my subconscious. The story was somehow seemingly complete, as if it had found its own way; all I had to do was write it down. At least that’s what I thought when I began. It soon became clear that there were a lot of holes remaining, holes that would allow the story to collapse if I did not fill them.
Fill them I did, and here it is, eventually, after torturous agonizing months, the story that came from that gifted seed of an idea. In many ways, to my way of thinking, it has grown into much more than a story, it has become a window into how a story is constructed, at least how I constructed this story. I hope you enjoy the journey through the words I’ve used to tell it.
- GenresFantasy
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2017
About the author
David Staniforth
8 books220 followersI’ve been inventing stories as far back as I can remember (mostly to keep me out of trouble), but began writing seriously after finishing an English studies BA as a mature student. My writing is influenced by so many things: a love of reading all genres; films; music; raising my two daughters; hill walking; and much, much more. I tend to take all I know, throw it into a setting and see what comes out.
My first four books were all fantasy, but then a new story entered my mind that insisted on being a psychological thriller. Just like raising children, a story insists on being what it was always meant to be: Characters will behave as they want, and plots will demand to go in a certain direction. All I do as an author is transfer their antics into writing and then release them into the world to see what readers make of them.
I have more fantasy tales to tell and more thrillers too. I can’t promise all readers that they will like my stories, but I can promise one thing: I will never publish anything that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed myself.
My first four books were all fantasy, but then a new story entered my mind that insisted on being a psychological thriller. Just like raising children, a story insists on being what it was always meant to be: Characters will behave as they want, and plots will demand to go in a certain direction. All I do as an author is transfer their antics into writing and then release them into the world to see what readers make of them.
I have more fantasy tales to tell and more thrillers too. I can’t promise all readers that they will like my stories, but I can promise one thing: I will never publish anything that I haven’t thoroughly enjoyed myself.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 2, 2017
A stunning, unique, delightful journey has been provided by author David Staniforth in his newest fantasy novel, The Book of Maker.
I admit that normally I'm not a fantasy reader, however, I love books and that is exactly what this one is all about. It is based around the concept of what happens to characters in the books once you close the covers. You know you've thought about this. Does Nancy Drew keep searching for clues, did Dorothy keep dreaming of Oz, what happens to the characters in Austen's books? Surely their lives go on without us somewhere, don't they? What if they did, how would their lives affect our own?
In the tale of an ordinary girl with a very un-ordinary imagination, Staniforth has created a marvelous coming of age story that captures the beauty and magic that we all feel when we hear a good story. His writing is exquisite and his prose quite nearly poetic. It was a joy to read this book just to hear the word play in my head. I'm being a bit vague regarding the details because the joy for this book is in the discovery - but it is worth the blind trust, I assure you.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of young adult fiction, fantasy and to anyone who simply adores reading - which includes nearly all of us.
Thank you David for giving me the pleasure of reading your masterful art.
September 19, 2017
I don’t read fantasy novels except for those written by brilliant Brit indie author David Staniforth. He makes fantasy a joy. Take note, you non-fantasy fans out there.
The Book of Maker is a standalone story with a fascinating premise that drew me in immediately: What if you could communicate with characters in a story and they could communicate with you? And what happens to the characters if the story goes unfinished? The Book of Maker probes these questions in a most intriguing way. Our main characters are Clarissa, Melvin, Rihanna, and Zola. Respectively, they are a young high school girl, a bookstore owner, a young princess, and a wizard. Together, and with the help of others, they tackle some very twisty challenges, and in doing so, enhance not only their own lives, but the lives of many more. To say more about the plot would risk spoilers. This book is best enjoyed going in as cold as possible.
What appeals to me the most in Staniforth books (I have read six of them so far) is his prose. I like to call it “literary light.” I am not a fan of descriptive novels. Mr. Staniforth, however, is THE master of turning a phrase and magically makes description flow like a waterfall. In fact, he can describe away down moments that would be dead in the hands of other authors. Of my stable of most favorite authors, I think Mr. Staniforth is the most unique and one of the top two very best overall writers.
The characters in this one are wonderful. Clarissa was my favorite. Seeing her personality transform as the story progresses was like watching a flower bloom. I also loved the way the older characters interact with their young charges. The character of the Kraken queen is very well written.
The plot takes the tantalizing premise and runs with it. The story is a real mix of intrigue, adventure, character study, coming of age, thriller, and, of course, fantasy. My favorite was the intrigue; as with all Staniforth tales, the author makes the reader think. Again, the narrative flows well. There were several ways the ending could have been written, and the author made good decisions in providing us with a great one. As an extra bonus, one can find a few tips in this tale in regards to how to write a good book!
I highly recommend this book and all of Mr. Staniforth’s fantasy novels to fantasy fans as well as non-fantasy fans looking for a safe (i.e. high rate of success) “out-of-the-box” experience. Take that from this non-fantasy fan. Kudos, Mr. Staniforth!
As a final note, I am proud to be a beta reader for David Staniforth. That experience has not biased in any way my opinions in this review.
The Book of Maker is a standalone story with a fascinating premise that drew me in immediately: What if you could communicate with characters in a story and they could communicate with you? And what happens to the characters if the story goes unfinished? The Book of Maker probes these questions in a most intriguing way. Our main characters are Clarissa, Melvin, Rihanna, and Zola. Respectively, they are a young high school girl, a bookstore owner, a young princess, and a wizard. Together, and with the help of others, they tackle some very twisty challenges, and in doing so, enhance not only their own lives, but the lives of many more. To say more about the plot would risk spoilers. This book is best enjoyed going in as cold as possible.
What appeals to me the most in Staniforth books (I have read six of them so far) is his prose. I like to call it “literary light.” I am not a fan of descriptive novels. Mr. Staniforth, however, is THE master of turning a phrase and magically makes description flow like a waterfall. In fact, he can describe away down moments that would be dead in the hands of other authors. Of my stable of most favorite authors, I think Mr. Staniforth is the most unique and one of the top two very best overall writers.
The characters in this one are wonderful. Clarissa was my favorite. Seeing her personality transform as the story progresses was like watching a flower bloom. I also loved the way the older characters interact with their young charges. The character of the Kraken queen is very well written.
The plot takes the tantalizing premise and runs with it. The story is a real mix of intrigue, adventure, character study, coming of age, thriller, and, of course, fantasy. My favorite was the intrigue; as with all Staniforth tales, the author makes the reader think. Again, the narrative flows well. There were several ways the ending could have been written, and the author made good decisions in providing us with a great one. As an extra bonus, one can find a few tips in this tale in regards to how to write a good book!
I highly recommend this book and all of Mr. Staniforth’s fantasy novels to fantasy fans as well as non-fantasy fans looking for a safe (i.e. high rate of success) “out-of-the-box” experience. Take that from this non-fantasy fan. Kudos, Mr. Staniforth!
As a final note, I am proud to be a beta reader for David Staniforth. That experience has not biased in any way my opinions in this review.
October 7, 2017
With the power of a pen stroke, a story maker can be either a creator or a destroyer. A contradiction of the senses can turn a parallel into a paradox, and circular circumstances can lead to ravelings which will inevitably meet. Read of kindred journals, an unfinished story, a cursed race, and why magic must be balanced.
Oh, the treasures that can be found on the shelves of dusty old bookshops. Case in point, a magical journal that seems to have Clarissa's name written all over it. You'll like Clarissa. She is an avid reader, awkward, she talks to herself, and is a big fan of known facts.
My reading preferences tend toward darker material, but this was most enjoyable. I encourage you to read the author's note and acknowledgements.
Oh, the treasures that can be found on the shelves of dusty old bookshops. Case in point, a magical journal that seems to have Clarissa's name written all over it. You'll like Clarissa. She is an avid reader, awkward, she talks to herself, and is a big fan of known facts.
My reading preferences tend toward darker material, but this was most enjoyable. I encourage you to read the author's note and acknowledgements.
November 18, 2017
Something totally different for me as I am not usual a reader of fantasy novels. This is a well written story that captures the imagination.
September 19, 2017
The Book of Maker is a lovely standalone fantasy novel by British author David Staniforth. The story features Clarissa Bell, a young reader who loves magic and make-believe. Perhaps this is because her own world is dreary and dull. Her mum works long hours. Her dad, an aspiring but failed writer, disappeared years ago, and Clarissa misses hearing his stories. She wears ill-fitting clothes from a bargain shop, and she is teased and bullied at school. Is it any wonder she seeks her escape in books?
Her adventure begins when she visits a used bookstore in search of a fantasy novel. She meets a strange but kindly man who seems to be in a hurry to send her on her way. She leaves with a very unusual book, one that will change her life.
In this whimsical tale, Clarissa meets several marvelous characters: Melvin, Rihanna, Zola, Tully, and Pelayo. I say “meets,” but she doesn’t physically meet all these people. Some of them come to her through the book. Through Clarissa’s journal, imagination meets reality. But what if a story just stops? Then what? The characters are real, but the writer is suspended somewhere in time or space. What then?
Besides being a delightful, fanciful adventure, The Book of Maker is also an allegory for the writing process and for life. It’s about the “what ifs”, the choices we make, and the chances we take along the way.
I mentioned earlier that Clarissa escapes her troubles by immersing herself in imaginary worlds. As she travels in this new world, Clarissa discovers a new part of herself away from those who belittle and taunt her. She creates new expectations for herself, and she matures in just days. Melvin calls her out when she avoids her responsibilities, but Clarissa herself learns what it means to care for others and to have self-worth.
As always, David Staniforth creates marvelous characters and truly imaginative other worlds. I loved the descriptions that Rihanna has for common devices in Clarissa’s world! But it’s not just the awesome strangeness of the beings and their environs that are so magical; Staniforth has, once again, rooted to the core of humanity to find what makes these characters tick. Not all are kind, thoughtful persons, but even the mostly despicable folks are fun to read.
The plot is beautifully paced; there are a few surprises in this adventure, and the author times those perfectly. This has to be the easiest beta read I have ever done, as there was only one section that had me raising an eyebrow. It is simply a pleasure to read Mr. Staniforth’s fiction and to enjoy his fine artwork on the cover as well. My thanks to David for the privilege of being one of the first to read his new novel. You are, David, a fine story-maker.
Her adventure begins when she visits a used bookstore in search of a fantasy novel. She meets a strange but kindly man who seems to be in a hurry to send her on her way. She leaves with a very unusual book, one that will change her life.
In this whimsical tale, Clarissa meets several marvelous characters: Melvin, Rihanna, Zola, Tully, and Pelayo. I say “meets,” but she doesn’t physically meet all these people. Some of them come to her through the book. Through Clarissa’s journal, imagination meets reality. But what if a story just stops? Then what? The characters are real, but the writer is suspended somewhere in time or space. What then?
Besides being a delightful, fanciful adventure, The Book of Maker is also an allegory for the writing process and for life. It’s about the “what ifs”, the choices we make, and the chances we take along the way.
I mentioned earlier that Clarissa escapes her troubles by immersing herself in imaginary worlds. As she travels in this new world, Clarissa discovers a new part of herself away from those who belittle and taunt her. She creates new expectations for herself, and she matures in just days. Melvin calls her out when she avoids her responsibilities, but Clarissa herself learns what it means to care for others and to have self-worth.
As always, David Staniforth creates marvelous characters and truly imaginative other worlds. I loved the descriptions that Rihanna has for common devices in Clarissa’s world! But it’s not just the awesome strangeness of the beings and their environs that are so magical; Staniforth has, once again, rooted to the core of humanity to find what makes these characters tick. Not all are kind, thoughtful persons, but even the mostly despicable folks are fun to read.
The plot is beautifully paced; there are a few surprises in this adventure, and the author times those perfectly. This has to be the easiest beta read I have ever done, as there was only one section that had me raising an eyebrow. It is simply a pleasure to read Mr. Staniforth’s fiction and to enjoy his fine artwork on the cover as well. My thanks to David for the privilege of being one of the first to read his new novel. You are, David, a fine story-maker.
September 20, 2017
Clarissa Bell buys a book in a second-hand shop. It’s blank – a rather posh notebook, it appears. She discovers that it’s possible to communicate with characters in a book. It’s also possible that you’re a character in someone else’s book. What possibilities this idea opens for a fertile mind like David Staniforth’s.
A story about a girl who hangs around bookshops – a girl who discovers the power of the written word? What’s not to like? But, as always, it’s the way he tells them. David’s got a great prose style. His ways of describing things are entirely his own and add so much to my enjoyment of his work – right from the first book of his that I read. The two realities are so believably created and the two sets of characters so sympathetic, that you’re standing behind them both and cheering them on. There are heart-stopping moments in this story and plenty of action and excitement. There’s also some dredged-up past to deal with and accept, and it all comes together to make a fantastic read. The book is probably going to be labelled as YA Fantasy because of the age of the major protagonists but there’s something in here for readers of any age. Never let a label put you off a great story!
A story about a girl who hangs around bookshops – a girl who discovers the power of the written word? What’s not to like? But, as always, it’s the way he tells them. David’s got a great prose style. His ways of describing things are entirely his own and add so much to my enjoyment of his work – right from the first book of his that I read. The two realities are so believably created and the two sets of characters so sympathetic, that you’re standing behind them both and cheering them on. There are heart-stopping moments in this story and plenty of action and excitement. There’s also some dredged-up past to deal with and accept, and it all comes together to make a fantastic read. The book is probably going to be labelled as YA Fantasy because of the age of the major protagonists but there’s something in here for readers of any age. Never let a label put you off a great story!
September 22, 2017
ACTUAL RATING 4.5*
David Staniforth is a new to me author. I love fantasy novels and saw this new novel was on offer for 99p, read the blurb and 'ping' another book purchase. I really enjoyed reading this, but was rather confused at one point when I arrived at chapter 6. I'd read previously about the book store and was again reading in chapter 6 about Clarissa going again into a book store. All became clear though. With regards to Clarissa's father, that was very predictable, but still enjoyable to read. Overall, a great storyline.
Clarissa Bell, aged 15 years, is a quiet, shy girl with no friends. She spends most of her time reading and visits the library most days. Clarissa likes to read about dragons, wizards and magical adventures, and has read all these books multiple times. One day, instead of going to the library, she decides that she will visit a marvellous place that sells marvellous second hand books.
Rita, Clarissa's mother, in order to survive has three jobs, so Clarissa sees very little of her mother. Rita thinks that all Clarissa's reading is futile and she will not achieve anything from it, just like Martin, her father. Martin, a failed writer, suddenly left 9 years ago and they haven't seen him since.
Clarissa walks to the book store, run by Melvyn Silk. Melvyn is in a rush to leave, so hurries Clarissa along. She finds a lovely looking book called Clarissa's Journal and doesn't think she can afford it, but Melvyn comes to an agreement with her about payment.
When she arrives back home, Clarissa goes to her room to read her new book, but when she opens the book she is aghast to find that all the pages are totally blank! After berating herself for choosing a book by it's cover, she decides to write her dream story in the journal. Clarissa then remembers that she has left her pen in the book store, so has nothing to write with. Upon inspecting the binding etc., Clarissa notices a bump in the spine of the book. Closer examination reveals an expensive looking silver fountain pen. Whoopee she can now write her story, but when she opens the book she sees the words from her dreams already written in the book - must be a magic book. Clarissa then decides that she will continue to write the story about Princess Rihanna, Tully and Zola, but thinks that she will practice writing the story on scrap paper first, so as not to spoil the lovely journal. She finds some paper, starts to write with the silver pen and discovers that the pen is empty of ink!
The next day, Clarissa goes back to the book store to show Melvyn the journal. Despite profusely telling him that she had not written the story and explaining that it must be a magic book, Melvyn says that she has great imagination so why not incorporate the magic book into the story. He tells Clarissa to pop by every so often so that he can continue to read the story and that will be payment for the book.
The next addition to the book is about herself and the encounter that she had on the bus journey home from the book store. Off she goes to school thinking about her dreams. She had dreamed about Rihanna last night, but the dream was very sketchy, so she decided not to write anything in the journal during the school break. During the French class, Clarissa has a meltdown and went rather beserk. The teacher ended up with a concussion and unfortunately Clarissa stabbed one of the girls with a compass. This resulted in her being excluded from school for a few days. Rita was very disappointed in her daughter.
Clarissa slept right through to the next day. When she woke she thought that she would write about the school fight in her journal. However, when she opened the journal everything was already written in it. She began to wonder about the book and decides that she needs to talk to Melvyn.
When her mother went out, Clarissa set off for the book store. On the way there, she started thinking that her dreams about Rihanna, Tully and Zola, were getting more sinister. When she arrives at the shop, it is empty and locked. Clarissa decides that she no longer wants the journal, so pops it through the store's letterbox and then she immediately regrets doing that.
As the story unfolds, we have in addition to Clarissa's Journal, other journals in a different dimension and another journal in Clarissa's world that belongs to Pelayo. Whatever is written in one journal, those events will happen in the other dimension and vice versa. Everyone needs to somehow get together to right the wrongs in both dimensions. Are they able to do this and succeed?
This will appeal to anyone who loves fantasy novels. Staniforth has created wonderful characters and incorporated them into a great storyline. I will have to read more of Staniforth's other works.
David Staniforth is a new to me author. I love fantasy novels and saw this new novel was on offer for 99p, read the blurb and 'ping' another book purchase. I really enjoyed reading this, but was rather confused at one point when I arrived at chapter 6. I'd read previously about the book store and was again reading in chapter 6 about Clarissa going again into a book store. All became clear though. With regards to Clarissa's father, that was very predictable, but still enjoyable to read. Overall, a great storyline.
Clarissa Bell, aged 15 years, is a quiet, shy girl with no friends. She spends most of her time reading and visits the library most days. Clarissa likes to read about dragons, wizards and magical adventures, and has read all these books multiple times. One day, instead of going to the library, she decides that she will visit a marvellous place that sells marvellous second hand books.
Rita, Clarissa's mother, in order to survive has three jobs, so Clarissa sees very little of her mother. Rita thinks that all Clarissa's reading is futile and she will not achieve anything from it, just like Martin, her father. Martin, a failed writer, suddenly left 9 years ago and they haven't seen him since.
Clarissa walks to the book store, run by Melvyn Silk. Melvyn is in a rush to leave, so hurries Clarissa along. She finds a lovely looking book called Clarissa's Journal and doesn't think she can afford it, but Melvyn comes to an agreement with her about payment.
When she arrives back home, Clarissa goes to her room to read her new book, but when she opens the book she is aghast to find that all the pages are totally blank! After berating herself for choosing a book by it's cover, she decides to write her dream story in the journal. Clarissa then remembers that she has left her pen in the book store, so has nothing to write with. Upon inspecting the binding etc., Clarissa notices a bump in the spine of the book. Closer examination reveals an expensive looking silver fountain pen. Whoopee she can now write her story, but when she opens the book she sees the words from her dreams already written in the book - must be a magic book. Clarissa then decides that she will continue to write the story about Princess Rihanna, Tully and Zola, but thinks that she will practice writing the story on scrap paper first, so as not to spoil the lovely journal. She finds some paper, starts to write with the silver pen and discovers that the pen is empty of ink!
The next day, Clarissa goes back to the book store to show Melvyn the journal. Despite profusely telling him that she had not written the story and explaining that it must be a magic book, Melvyn says that she has great imagination so why not incorporate the magic book into the story. He tells Clarissa to pop by every so often so that he can continue to read the story and that will be payment for the book.
The next addition to the book is about herself and the encounter that she had on the bus journey home from the book store. Off she goes to school thinking about her dreams. She had dreamed about Rihanna last night, but the dream was very sketchy, so she decided not to write anything in the journal during the school break. During the French class, Clarissa has a meltdown and went rather beserk. The teacher ended up with a concussion and unfortunately Clarissa stabbed one of the girls with a compass. This resulted in her being excluded from school for a few days. Rita was very disappointed in her daughter.
Clarissa slept right through to the next day. When she woke she thought that she would write about the school fight in her journal. However, when she opened the journal everything was already written in it. She began to wonder about the book and decides that she needs to talk to Melvyn.
When her mother went out, Clarissa set off for the book store. On the way there, she started thinking that her dreams about Rihanna, Tully and Zola, were getting more sinister. When she arrives at the shop, it is empty and locked. Clarissa decides that she no longer wants the journal, so pops it through the store's letterbox and then she immediately regrets doing that.
As the story unfolds, we have in addition to Clarissa's Journal, other journals in a different dimension and another journal in Clarissa's world that belongs to Pelayo. Whatever is written in one journal, those events will happen in the other dimension and vice versa. Everyone needs to somehow get together to right the wrongs in both dimensions. Are they able to do this and succeed?
This will appeal to anyone who loves fantasy novels. Staniforth has created wonderful characters and incorporated them into a great storyline. I will have to read more of Staniforth's other works.
September 20, 2017
What is better than a good book? Well, of course it is a good books about books! especially a book that capture you from the very first page which is exactly what happened to me with "The Book of Maker".
Have you ever wondered what happens to the characters of a story when you finish reading it, when you are not looking at it? Have you ever thought about them after closing the book and invented other events and futures for them? Have you ever dreamed to communicate with characters?
If you do, the way i certainly do every single time, Then this book is definitely for you!
Clarissa Bell is a "normal" girl who loves to read, nothing in her life was out of the ordinary and she felt rather insignificant at moments, Until the day she went to an obscure secondhand book shop and found a journal that was going to change all her life forever, that took her in an incredible and magical journey but also a journey to discover herself.
The first chapters were an intriguing switch between magic and reality and i loved that confusion, the "not-knowing" and the going backward to check what i was reading. And when the story becomes clearer, it just kept getting better.
This time i will not go into the details of the plot, it is so much better to dive into this book without really knowing what you will find.
I enjoyed the different characters, what they stand for and how they interact and the more i read about them, the more i got attached to them and at times i was holding my breath for them. I also liked the plot a lot along with the various twists i did not expect. The story really caught me and i remember that i was frequently discussing with myself different theories about the characters and the plot and how it was all connected!
Well, It's a known fact that a good story can drive you momentarily crazy :)
One more thing, i love the cover. I think i was waiting to see it as eagerly as i was waiting to read the book.
Finally, i think it is useless for me to say again that i am not exactly a fantasy fan after reading and re-reading all of your fantasy books Mr. David Staniforth!
And it was such an honor and pleasure to beta read for you. It was an interesting experience for me and this review is my honest opinion about the book.
Have you ever wondered what happens to the characters of a story when you finish reading it, when you are not looking at it? Have you ever thought about them after closing the book and invented other events and futures for them? Have you ever dreamed to communicate with characters?
If you do, the way i certainly do every single time, Then this book is definitely for you!
Clarissa Bell is a "normal" girl who loves to read, nothing in her life was out of the ordinary and she felt rather insignificant at moments, Until the day she went to an obscure secondhand book shop and found a journal that was going to change all her life forever, that took her in an incredible and magical journey but also a journey to discover herself.
The first chapters were an intriguing switch between magic and reality and i loved that confusion, the "not-knowing" and the going backward to check what i was reading. And when the story becomes clearer, it just kept getting better.
This time i will not go into the details of the plot, it is so much better to dive into this book without really knowing what you will find.
I enjoyed the different characters, what they stand for and how they interact and the more i read about them, the more i got attached to them and at times i was holding my breath for them. I also liked the plot a lot along with the various twists i did not expect. The story really caught me and i remember that i was frequently discussing with myself different theories about the characters and the plot and how it was all connected!
Well, It's a known fact that a good story can drive you momentarily crazy :)
One more thing, i love the cover. I think i was waiting to see it as eagerly as i was waiting to read the book.
Finally, i think it is useless for me to say again that i am not exactly a fantasy fan after reading and re-reading all of your fantasy books Mr. David Staniforth!
And it was such an honor and pleasure to beta read for you. It was an interesting experience for me and this review is my honest opinion about the book.
September 20, 2017
Another great story from author, David Staniforth - and a concept that is completely unique! In addition to the well drawn characters and intricate tale that unfolds, there is also much in here that will speak to anyone who holds an appreciation for books, loves holding and smelling them, loves bookstores and writing…
Martin Bell made up stories and told them to his daughter. He fancied himself a writer, but was never able to make a living at it – he was not good at seeing the stories through to completion. One day he is inexplicably drawn to leave his home and family, taking all of his stories with him. Nine years later, Clarissa enters a bookshop and receives a journal that will call into question everything she knows to be true. This is a complex tale about what might happen when an author has an idea for a story but lets it go unfinished. Those stories need to be told…and they will be. The Book of Maker is full of great characters, glorious descriptions and details that bring them to full life on the page - the author is so very skilled at this. While there are a lot of pieces in play here, in the end, they fit together and a beautiful picture of the writing process (maker and creation) comes full circle.
Martin Bell made up stories and told them to his daughter. He fancied himself a writer, but was never able to make a living at it – he was not good at seeing the stories through to completion. One day he is inexplicably drawn to leave his home and family, taking all of his stories with him. Nine years later, Clarissa enters a bookshop and receives a journal that will call into question everything she knows to be true. This is a complex tale about what might happen when an author has an idea for a story but lets it go unfinished. Those stories need to be told…and they will be. The Book of Maker is full of great characters, glorious descriptions and details that bring them to full life on the page - the author is so very skilled at this. While there are a lot of pieces in play here, in the end, they fit together and a beautiful picture of the writing process (maker and creation) comes full circle.
October 23, 2017
Outstanding!! I’ve read all of the books written by David Staniforth, and I loved every one of them. He really knows how to write an incredible story, that truly captures the reader’s attention. This story: ‘The Book of Maker’ has a combination of great characters, and very unique story line. It’s definitely one of those books you’ll remember even after you’ve completed it.
Clarissa Bell didn’t have much in her life besides her reading, which she spent a vast amount of time doing. Mainly because it was just her and her mum, since her dad had taken off years ago, and they were also quite poor. Clarissa was made fun of because of her cheap clothes, and she constantly tried to hide from her tormentors. She had all but exhausted all the Fantasy books in the library, so to rectify this she decided to venture into Melvin Silk’s book shop looking for new Fantasy books to read. She certainly wasn’t expecting to find a journal that would change her life. Clarissa dreams of faraway places with Wizards and Princesses, and secretly she wishes she could escape to this other world, that seems very real in her mind. I can’t continue with too much more in this review, as it would give the plot away. Suffice to say, it really is a wonderfully entertaining novel. Easily worth the 5/5 Star rating.
Clarissa Bell didn’t have much in her life besides her reading, which she spent a vast amount of time doing. Mainly because it was just her and her mum, since her dad had taken off years ago, and they were also quite poor. Clarissa was made fun of because of her cheap clothes, and she constantly tried to hide from her tormentors. She had all but exhausted all the Fantasy books in the library, so to rectify this she decided to venture into Melvin Silk’s book shop looking for new Fantasy books to read. She certainly wasn’t expecting to find a journal that would change her life. Clarissa dreams of faraway places with Wizards and Princesses, and secretly she wishes she could escape to this other world, that seems very real in her mind. I can’t continue with too much more in this review, as it would give the plot away. Suffice to say, it really is a wonderfully entertaining novel. Easily worth the 5/5 Star rating.
September 28, 2017
Clarissa Bell is a reader, and like so many readers, she takes her stories seriously. But what happens when the book chooses you?
Sucked into an adventure between two worlds, it soon becomes clear that Clarissa’s life will never be the same again - that sometimes it isn’t who you know but what you’ve read that matters, and that sometimes the pen really is mightier than the sword.
This quirky standalone fantasy takes the rule book and stands it on its head - telling the tales of two central characters whose lives are inextricably linked. That said, all of the supporting cast are fleshed out nicely, and it isn’t long before we, the reader, are racing through the twists and turns of the plot alongside them.
The author paints a vivid picture of a fantasy world that was immersive and fun to visit. Staniforth’s ‘real world’ is equally as inviting and gives the reader a real sense of being there.
The marked difference in the styles and tones of the prose used to differentiate between both worlds gives the reader a clear indication of where they are and, despite needing a little time to adjust at the beginning, was easy to grasp as the story developed and made the tale all the more enjoyable.
This is indie fantasy from a practiced hand, and it shows. I would certainly encourage anyone looking for a good read to pick it up, sit back and enjoy the ride.
If it’s as good as this, I’m looking forward to reading what comes next from the pen and mind of David Staniforth!
Sucked into an adventure between two worlds, it soon becomes clear that Clarissa’s life will never be the same again - that sometimes it isn’t who you know but what you’ve read that matters, and that sometimes the pen really is mightier than the sword.
This quirky standalone fantasy takes the rule book and stands it on its head - telling the tales of two central characters whose lives are inextricably linked. That said, all of the supporting cast are fleshed out nicely, and it isn’t long before we, the reader, are racing through the twists and turns of the plot alongside them.
The author paints a vivid picture of a fantasy world that was immersive and fun to visit. Staniforth’s ‘real world’ is equally as inviting and gives the reader a real sense of being there.
The marked difference in the styles and tones of the prose used to differentiate between both worlds gives the reader a clear indication of where they are and, despite needing a little time to adjust at the beginning, was easy to grasp as the story developed and made the tale all the more enjoyable.
This is indie fantasy from a practiced hand, and it shows. I would certainly encourage anyone looking for a good read to pick it up, sit back and enjoy the ride.
If it’s as good as this, I’m looking forward to reading what comes next from the pen and mind of David Staniforth!
March 7, 2018
A brilliant & amazing story & it had something new to say. Loved it! I rather like this sentence from the book "....... rather like telling an idea for a story to an author which he then goes & turns into something more than you woulld ever have thought possible" Exactly!!!
September 18, 2017
I love this author's thrillers, his fantasies not so much, but this is a book on its own.
Clarissa, a schoolgirl starts writing her journal, but someone else is writing in it. Rihanna, a princess in another world is writing in her journal, but someone else is writing in it. As it turns out, they are writing in each other's journal, kind of like a cross world email.
So Clarissa sets off on a trip, guided by Rihanna and Rihanna sets off on her trip, guided by Clarissa.
Sounds complicated, it's not. This is a tale of two adventures and the way the stories weave together is clever.
I'm not much of a fantasy fan, but this story is technical only half fantasy. It was very cleverly written and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Clarissa, a schoolgirl starts writing her journal, but someone else is writing in it. Rihanna, a princess in another world is writing in her journal, but someone else is writing in it. As it turns out, they are writing in each other's journal, kind of like a cross world email.
So Clarissa sets off on a trip, guided by Rihanna and Rihanna sets off on her trip, guided by Clarissa.
Sounds complicated, it's not. This is a tale of two adventures and the way the stories weave together is clever.
I'm not much of a fantasy fan, but this story is technical only half fantasy. It was very cleverly written and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 31, 2019
Really enjoyed this book! Such a good idea for a story, love the mix of fantasy characters vs real life. I would have loved to of read a book like this when I was a child, imagine being able to make stories real just by writing! Absolutely magical. Would recommend. Love the way David Staniforth writes, this is the first of his I've read but I'm definitely interested in reading more!
November 23, 2017
Excellent, very cleverly written! I hope your on with the next Mr Staniforth!
April 25, 2023
Clarissa Bell and her mum are not well off: her mum works three part-time jobs to make ends meet following the departure nine years previously of Clarissa's dad, a writer who never made a proper 'go' of it. Clarissa's one consolation is reading, since she doesn't have friends and is bullied at school for being poorly dressed. Her favourite genre is fantasy. One day, having read all the fantasy in the library she sets off across town to a second hand bookshop she's heard about.
At this point, I got a little confused because the shop was enchanted - except that turned out to be a fantasy she was having in her head during her walk to the real shop. Except - it wasn't. It is gradually revealed that the journal she ends up selecting, is a conduit to a fantasy land where Princess Rhiannon has a similar magic journal, and that each can affect the lives of the other. This sets off a series of adventures which will be life changing for both Clarissa and Rhiannon.
The book works on a number of levels, not least a meta one in which the story is a metaphor for the fiction writing process itself. There are likeable characters such as Melvin Silk, the kind bookshop owner who enables Clarissa to make a journey she very much needs to make, not only for the sake of Rhiannon, but ultimately her own. There are villains, the best developed of whom is Miguel, and I was pleased, without wishing to give too much away, that the common trope wasn't followed in his case: he doesn't become massively grateful after people he previously menaced and threatened saved his life.
I found the fantasy land characters less well developed and the book struck me as perhaps aimed at a younger audience than young adult: what used to be called 8 - 12 and maybe is called teen these days? Anyway, a pleasant read which I would award 3 stars.
At this point, I got a little confused because the shop was enchanted - except that turned out to be a fantasy she was having in her head during her walk to the real shop. Except - it wasn't. It is gradually revealed that the journal she ends up selecting, is a conduit to a fantasy land where Princess Rhiannon has a similar magic journal, and that each can affect the lives of the other. This sets off a series of adventures which will be life changing for both Clarissa and Rhiannon.
The book works on a number of levels, not least a meta one in which the story is a metaphor for the fiction writing process itself. There are likeable characters such as Melvin Silk, the kind bookshop owner who enables Clarissa to make a journey she very much needs to make, not only for the sake of Rhiannon, but ultimately her own. There are villains, the best developed of whom is Miguel, and I was pleased, without wishing to give too much away, that the common trope wasn't followed in his case: he doesn't become massively grateful after people he previously menaced and threatened saved his life.
I found the fantasy land characters less well developed and the book struck me as perhaps aimed at a younger audience than young adult: what used to be called 8 - 12 and maybe is called teen these days? Anyway, a pleasant read which I would award 3 stars.
August 28, 2021
3.5 I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this, given fantasy is not usually a genre I am drawn to. I picked it up initially because I love the cover but, I have read other novels by this author so knew I'd be in good hands. Glad I gave it a go and will look for more of his work.
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